Vision-Guided Robotic Automation and Digital Twin Framework for Autonomous Experiments

Brookhaven Science Associates, on behalf of the Department of Energy Office of Science, is soliciting quotes for vision-guided robotic automation and a digital twin framework for autonomous experiments via RFQ-480086, with proposals due August 14, 2026 at 5:00 p.m. EDT and questions due July 29, 2026. This is full and open competition; the small business size standard is $34.5 million under NAICS 611310.

Place of performance is Upton, NY (Brookhaven National Laboratory), with the majority of work performed onsite at the DOE/NNSA facility. The offeror must be currently enrolled in a graduate program in Computer Science, Robotics, Electrical Engineering, Mechanical Engineering, or a related STEM field. Required technical competencies include Python programming, computer vision/image processing/machine learning techniques, and deep learning frameworks (PyTorch, TensorFlow, OpenCV), plus demonstrated expertise in at least one specialized area: robotics, ROS/ROS2, simulation environments, stereo vision, point cloud processing, 3D reconstruction, or digital twin technologies. The contractor must demonstrate independent research and software development capability and be available for approximately 20 hours per week. The base year timeline spans 12 months with optional continuations in Year 1 and Year 2.

Work encompasses three primary scopes: deployment of stereo camera systems for 3D perception in laboratory and beamline environments with deep-learning-based object detection; development of a digital twin synchronized with real-time perception data to represent robotic kinematics, beamline components, and mock hardware; and creation of a robotic simulation environment for pre-execution trajectory evaluation including reachability analysis, collision prediction, and clearance margin estimation. The subcontract is cost reimbursable with Net 10 payment terms for small businesses and Net 30 for large businesses. Pricing shall be all-inclusive on a Delivered Duty Paid basis. Award will be made to the responsive and responsible offeror submitting the lowest total price who adequately answers all qualifier questions and meets technical requirements. Submissions must include the signed Quotation Pricing Sheet (AMS Form-043) and, if not currently active in SAM.gov, Representations and Certifications (AMS Form-050).